Also in the Puuc Hills within close proximity to the city of Uxmal are the smaller cities of Labna, Kabah, and Sayil. These sites and others across the Mayan world were connected by a network of roads, or Sacbeob. These Sacbeob were white raised pathways or roads made of crushed limestone, that at times stretched for hundreds of miles between sites. The word Sacbé (singular) literally means “White Road” in Mayan. They served a key role in Mayan society, linking sites both politically and economically. As with most things in the Mayan system of beliefs, the Sacbeob also held a sacred significance, serving as routes of pilgrimage, and were key in the growth of Mayan knowledge and culture.
As with the surrounding Puuc cities, the city of Labna was constructed between the 8th and 10th centuries. Labna’s most defining feature is its famous arch. Its intricate façade with recurring geometric motifs make it a strong example of Puuc architecture. Three tall “Cresteria”, or ornamental roof-combs once stood on top of the arch but have long since crumbled. Unlike the large arch at nearby Kabah, the Labna Arch was not a gateway to the city, but rather a passageway between key public areas.